UNESCO Youth Leadership Workshop on Global Citizenship Education (GCED) 2026

The Youth Leadership Workshop on Global Citizenship Education (GCED) is an international program organized by the Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU) under the auspices of UNESCO.

The workshop aims to empower young leaders around the world by providing training, networking opportunities, and mentorship to promote peace, global citizenship, and sustainable development.

Participants gain knowledge and skills to implement community-based initiatives and advocacy projects related to global citizenship education.

Program Overview

• Organizer: UNESCO Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU)
• Program Type: International youth leadership workshop
• Theme: Global Citizenship Education (GCED)
• Format: Online training and international collaboration
• Participants: Youth leaders from eligible countries

The program has been organized annually since 2015, bringing together young changemakers from across the world to discuss global challenges and promote a culture of peace.

Program Objectives

The workshop focuses on building youth capacity in global citizenship and leadership.

Key objectives include:

• Promoting global citizenship education and intercultural understanding
• Encouraging youth participation in peacebuilding initiatives
• Supporting youth-led social impact projects
• Strengthening leadership and advocacy skills
• Creating a global network of young changemakers

Participants engage in discussions, collaborative activities, and networking with international experts and youth leaders.

Benefits of the Program

Selected participants receive several opportunities and benefits:

• Participation in an international youth leadership workshop
• Networking with global youth leaders and experts
• Capacity-building sessions on global citizenship education
• Mentorship opportunities for follow-up initiatives
• Opportunity to receive grants for community projects

In some editions of the program, selected participants can receive project grants and mentorship to implement initiatives in their communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Youth leaders actively engaged in social impact or education initiatives
• Applicants from ODA recipient countries are often prioritized
• Strong interest in global citizenship education and peacebuilding
• Ability to communicate in English, which is the working language of the program

The workshop is designed for youth who want to promote social change, education, and intercultural dialogue in their communities.

Activities and Training

The workshop includes several interactive components:

• Online training sessions on global citizenship education
• Interactive discussions and group collaboration
• Peer learning and experience sharing
• Development of youth-led project ideas
• Networking with global organizations and youth advocates

Participants work together to explore innovative ways to address global challenges such as social justice, sustainability, and intercultural dialogue.

Why This Program Matters

Global Citizenship Education plays a crucial role in building inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies. UNESCO promotes GCED as a transformative approach that helps individuals understand global challenges and develop solutions collaboratively.

Through programs like the Youth Leadership Workshop, young people are encouraged to become leaders, advocates, and changemakers who contribute to positive social transformation in their communities.